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The Artist and the Soldier
Two young men come of age and fall in love, set against the backdrop of true events during World War II.
It’s 1938. Bastian Fisher and Max Amsel meet at an American-Nazi camp, Siegfried. Neither have any idea what to do with their blooming, confusing feelings for one another. Before they can begin to understand, the pair is yanked apart and forced in opposite directions.
Five years later, during the heart of World War II, Bastian’s American army platoon lands in Salerno, Italy. Max is in Nazi-occupied Rome where he has negotiated a plan to hire Jews on as ‘extras’ in a movie—an elaborate ruse to escape the Nazis. Brought together by circumstance and war, Bastian and Max find one another again in Rome.
Exploring the true stories of Camp Siegfried and the making of the film, La Porta del Cielo, The Artist and the Soldier is intense, fast moving, and sheds light on largely untouched stories in American and Italian history.
It’s 1938. Bastian Fisher and Max Amsel meet at an American-Nazi camp, Siegfried. Neither have any idea what to do with their blooming, confusing feelings for one another. Before they can begin to understand, the pair is yanked apart and forced in opposite directions.
Five years later, during the heart of World War II, Bastian’s American army platoon lands in Salerno, Italy. Max is in Nazi-occupied Rome where he has negotiated a plan to hire Jews on as ‘extras’ in a movie—an elaborate ruse to escape the Nazis. Brought together by circumstance and war, Bastian and Max find one another again in Rome.
Exploring the true stories of Camp Siegfried and the making of the film, La Porta del Cielo, The Artist and the Soldier is intense, fast moving, and sheds light on largely untouched stories in American and Italian history.
336 pages, Paperback
Published May 1, 2018
5 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Angelle Petta
1 book11 followersAngelle Petta is an author, a Registered Drama Therapist and a PhD student. She lives, writes, and works in Northern VA.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
September 10, 2020
The Artist and the Soldier is described as “exploring the true stories of Camp Siegfried, a Nazi-American summer camp in New York, and the making of the film which saved hundreds of lives”. Personally, I wouldn’t have minded if more of the book had focused on how camps like Camp Siegfried came to be run in America as it seems quite extraordinary now that young people should have been exposed to pro-Nazi propaganda at this time. Having said that, in her afterword, the author talks more about the inspiration for the book.
Understandably, the main focus of the book is the relationship between Max and Bastian, both of whom are forced to hide their true sexuality. The author does a good job of conveying the confusion and uncertainty caused by their growing feelings for each other, the shifting dynamics of their relationship and also the exhilaration of finding someone with whom you can be yourself. Max and Bastian also share troubled home lives and have experienced family tragedy. Before their relationship can develop further, however, a shocking and, to my mind, unforgivable action on the part of one of them drives them in different directions.
The son of an Italian mother, Max takes up his Uncle Franco’s suggestion that he travel to Italy, where he eventually enrols in film school. Meanwhile Bastian, in an act of rebellion against his violent and pro-Nazi father, enlists with the US Army. ‘What would anger his father more than anything in the world? If he joined the fight against the Nazis.’ He is posted abroad and it will be many years until Max and Bastian meet again.
I confess I wasn’t a huge fan of the frequent “head-hopping” between the thoughts of different characters (occasionally within a single paragraph). I found it rather distracting and sometimes had to re-read a section to work out whose thoughts were being revealed. I much preferred the chapters later in the book written mainly or entirely from a single point of view. As it happens, this coincided with the change of location to wartime Italy and this was much the most interesting part of the book for me.
Bastian’s sister, Ilsa, makes an appearance in the second half of the book and I found her a particularly engaging character. Whereas I found Bastian difficult to like – even his sister describes him as “the king of self-preservation” – I admired Isla’s conviction that she could help to make the world a better place. Enrolling as a nurse, her intervention proves crucial on a number of occasions and I wished for a happier outcome for her.
The Artist and the Soldier combines an intense love story with the depiction of real life events. In doing so it shines a light on the courage and resilience of those who tried to protect others from the horrors of war.
Understandably, the main focus of the book is the relationship between Max and Bastian, both of whom are forced to hide their true sexuality. The author does a good job of conveying the confusion and uncertainty caused by their growing feelings for each other, the shifting dynamics of their relationship and also the exhilaration of finding someone with whom you can be yourself. Max and Bastian also share troubled home lives and have experienced family tragedy. Before their relationship can develop further, however, a shocking and, to my mind, unforgivable action on the part of one of them drives them in different directions.
The son of an Italian mother, Max takes up his Uncle Franco’s suggestion that he travel to Italy, where he eventually enrols in film school. Meanwhile Bastian, in an act of rebellion against his violent and pro-Nazi father, enlists with the US Army. ‘What would anger his father more than anything in the world? If he joined the fight against the Nazis.’ He is posted abroad and it will be many years until Max and Bastian meet again.
I confess I wasn’t a huge fan of the frequent “head-hopping” between the thoughts of different characters (occasionally within a single paragraph). I found it rather distracting and sometimes had to re-read a section to work out whose thoughts were being revealed. I much preferred the chapters later in the book written mainly or entirely from a single point of view. As it happens, this coincided with the change of location to wartime Italy and this was much the most interesting part of the book for me.
Bastian’s sister, Ilsa, makes an appearance in the second half of the book and I found her a particularly engaging character. Whereas I found Bastian difficult to like – even his sister describes him as “the king of self-preservation” – I admired Isla’s conviction that she could help to make the world a better place. Enrolling as a nurse, her intervention proves crucial on a number of occasions and I wished for a happier outcome for her.
The Artist and the Soldier combines an intense love story with the depiction of real life events. In doing so it shines a light on the courage and resilience of those who tried to protect others from the horrors of war.
September 11, 2018
Being a history nut, this story is right in my wheelhouse and I am intrigued by the two relatively unknown events Petta brings to light. As youth, Bastian and Max meet at Camp Siegfried where, yes, like-minded German-Americans sent their boys to summer camp to be indoctrinated with Hitler's plans for Germany in a pseudo-military setting. The two boys form an unlikely friendship and begin exploring their feelings for one another only to separate on the cusp of WWII - Bastian enlisting in the army and Max returning to his family's ancestral roots in Rome and studying film.
They meet up again during the war in German-occupied Rome where Bastian is intelligence gathering and Max is involved in filming La Puerta del Cielo, a movie from Italian filmmaker Vittorio De Sica that employed hundreds of Jews to save them from the Germans.
I would give the plot of this book very high marks because of its originality, and the various actions scenes are well-done and very interesting to read. Where the story worked less successfully for me was in the love story. There's a lot of "tell" versus "show" and while I feel we learn a lot about the characters' backgrounds and actions, there is less in-depth emotional development of the characters and the dialogue is a bit stilted. In addition, a few plot points seemed ... odd
My rating is 3.5 stars and I think any reader who enjoys historical romance will want to take a look at this story. I will definitely look forward to Petta's next book.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
They meet up again during the war in German-occupied Rome where Bastian is intelligence gathering and Max is involved in filming La Puerta del Cielo, a movie from Italian filmmaker Vittorio De Sica that employed hundreds of Jews to save them from the Germans.
I would give the plot of this book very high marks because of its originality, and the various actions scenes are well-done and very interesting to read. Where the story worked less successfully for me was in the love story. There's a lot of "tell" versus "show" and while I feel we learn a lot about the characters' backgrounds and actions, there is less in-depth emotional development of the characters and the dialogue is a bit stilted. In addition, a few plot points seemed ... odd
My rating is 3.5 stars and I think any reader who enjoys historical romance will want to take a look at this story. I will definitely look forward to Petta's next book.
Max supposed Bastian was right. They didn’t know, or need to know, what happened next. The life they chose to lead, or not lead, was not pre-scripted. They could do with it what they wanted. The thought comforted Max as he drifted off to sleep, next to Bastian, their hands intertwined into a bouquet of fingers. And once the war was over; a war that had attempted to take away people’s humanity, their spirit, their faith; once grave stones were carved and the dead remembered, once the ever gnawing hunger dampened and bellies were almost full again, once children were born who had not lived through it, Max and Bastian would have this night, this moment, precious and maybe ill-conceived, it could not be taken away.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Review also posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
May 2, 2021
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2018/11/04/...
Rating: 2 Stars - it’s a struggle to finish the damn book
I received a copy of The Artist and the Soldier from Warren Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 2 Stars - it’s a struggle to finish the damn book
I received a copy of The Artist and the Soldier from Warren Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 11, 2019
Compelling, poignant, and emotional!
Full review to follow shortly.
Full review to follow shortly.
December 24, 2020
This unexpected love story hatched in a most unlikely place was riveting. A page turner. That it aligns with the historical backdrop of WWII made it more compelling. I had never heard of German summer camps for boys in the US. I didn't know the details of the siege of Rome. Informative, entertaining and heart-rending.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 10, 2019
I.have read many true and fictional books about the 2nd.World War and the Holocaust but none that I enjoyed more than this one.
The book was outstanding in the sense,that it was about a taboo subject,more so,since taking place in the thirties and forties.
Two teenage boys,both living in New York go to a Summer camp,meet and fall in love.They meet once again before going,their separate ways.They meet again in Rome,where one is doing undercover work for his Country and the other is saving hundreds of Jews while helping a famous film director with his movie.
Needless to say this book is full of near heart stopping moments and staggering twists and turns.
It has many actual facts that did take place on or near the times mentioned in this novel.
If you are a real lover of WWII fictional History, you will truly enjoy the different avenues of this one.
Thank you Netgalley and Angelle Petra for the opportunity to read and review "The Soldier and the Artist."
The book was outstanding in the sense,that it was about a taboo subject,more so,since taking place in the thirties and forties.
Two teenage boys,both living in New York go to a Summer camp,meet and fall in love.They meet once again before going,their separate ways.They meet again in Rome,where one is doing undercover work for his Country and the other is saving hundreds of Jews while helping a famous film director with his movie.
Needless to say this book is full of near heart stopping moments and staggering twists and turns.
It has many actual facts that did take place on or near the times mentioned in this novel.
If you are a real lover of WWII fictional History, you will truly enjoy the different avenues of this one.
Thank you Netgalley and Angelle Petra for the opportunity to read and review "The Soldier and the Artist."
April 12, 2018
Navigating the complex terrain of the friendship, love and sexual awakening of two young men in the shadow of Nazi occupation, Petta summons tenderness, vulnerability and insight. An Artist and a Soldier reminds us what it means to be human in the face of fascism. A timely book!
April 5, 2018
I received an early copy and had the pleasure of being one of the first readers of the novel. This is a fascinating coming-of-age story about two young men during WWII. Creative and thoughtful, the story's historical background is well researched. It is a quick and delightful read filled with poetic intrigue.
April 25, 2018
When I was approached about the possibility of reviewing this book, I was fascinated by the historical background behind it, which I was not familiar with. A book combining World War II, Nazi summer camps in the US, the filming of a movie by Vittorio De Sicca in Rome during the war, and a love story, had to be a winner.
The author manages to combine a coming-of-age (both male protagonists, Max and Bastian, are very young at the beginning of the book) and love story with a fascinating historical background. The two youths meet at a Nazi summer camp in New York. Both their fathers are German and want them to grow up aware of their heritage. Max and Bastian are, in many ways, mirror images of each other, opposites that, indeed, attract. Bastian looks German (blond, tall, strong), is impulsive and always excels when it comes to sports, and outdoor activities, whilst Max takes after his Italian mother, is quiet, and has the soul of an artist. They both suffer trauma and have difficult childhoods, although in different ways. The unlikely pair becomes close and Bastian supports Max when tragedy strikes, although things take a bad turn, and they end up separated by life and circumstances.
They go their separate ways, and we keep waiting, convinced they will meet again. Bastian is still daring, impulsive, and is plagued by self-hatred and doubt. Max, who has always been more accepting of his own identity and has become stronger and more determined, has been living in Italy, has studied film, and finds a great opportunity to help Italian Jews. He takes part in the project of filming a movie under the protection of the Vatican and comes up with the idea of offering them contracts there. De Sica is determined to keep filming for as long as he can to keep all those people safe, and this historical fact provides a fascinating backdrop to the story of the two lovers.
The story, told in the third person, follows the point of view of the two male characters first, and later we also get to read about the adventures of Ilsa, Bastian’s sister, a fantastic character, from her point of view. She is strong, a fighter, and is determined to find her brother, no matter how far she has to go and what she has to do. Her experiences as a nurse during the war are gripping, and she keeps working despite terrible personal loss, hardship, and deprivation. Her character allows us to see things from a different perspective and also provides us more background into Bastian’s character, that is, perhaps, the most complex of the book, at least in my opinion.
Although the love story is central to the book, this is not a light and easy book to read. Apart from the tragedy and the terrible events that happen during the war, there is child abuse, mental illness, bullying, and the novel does not shy away from the unsavoury aspects of life. The characters are not all good and perfect either, and they sometimes do things that are questionable, while at others they can behave like true heroes.
The writing beautifully conveys the emotions of the characters, the setting (Rome as an open city provides a great backdrop), and the relationships, without going over the top with the descriptions, and ensuring the story keeps moving at a good pace. Being a big movie fan, I would have liked to read more about the filming of the movie, but the author refrains from getting sidetracked, and the guest appearances by the actors of the film and the interventions by De Sica are all the more enjoyable for being kept under control and not overwhelming the main story.
I wanted to share a couple of quotes from the book:
“Travel safely, signora. It is a dangerous world we are living in.” Her world had always been a dangerous one. A gun instead of a fist, a war instead of an irate father, her present didn’t feel so different from her past.” (This reflection belongs to Ilsa, Bastian’s sister).
Did something as inconsequential as film belong in this new world? It was De Sica who’d helped him see his misconception. “We need film, and music, and art, more than ever now,” De Sica had said. “These mediums help us remember that we are humans living in a world filled with monsters. What we are doing here is not frivolous. It is saving us, our humanity.” (Max questions his vocation, but De Sica comes to the rescue).
The ending feels appropriate and fits in well with a love story. It shows that both characters have grown and learned to accept who they are and what their relationship means. Other issues are resolved as well, and although some of the coincidences and the way the characters always seem to be in the right place at the right time require some suspension of disbelief, this does not go beyond the expectations for the genre.
In an end note, the author explains the conception of the story and clarifies that although Max, Bastian, and Ilsa are creations of her own imagination, the historical events and backdrop are accurate, and she has used her fictional characters as a conduit to tell the story. I believe this would be a great selection for book clubs, as there is much to discuss and many interesting aspects that will attract readers of different types of stories.
I recommend this book to readers of historical fiction, especially those interested in WWII, Italian cinema, and love stories with complex protagonists. I look forward to following the author’s career in the future.
The author manages to combine a coming-of-age (both male protagonists, Max and Bastian, are very young at the beginning of the book) and love story with a fascinating historical background. The two youths meet at a Nazi summer camp in New York. Both their fathers are German and want them to grow up aware of their heritage. Max and Bastian are, in many ways, mirror images of each other, opposites that, indeed, attract. Bastian looks German (blond, tall, strong), is impulsive and always excels when it comes to sports, and outdoor activities, whilst Max takes after his Italian mother, is quiet, and has the soul of an artist. They both suffer trauma and have difficult childhoods, although in different ways. The unlikely pair becomes close and Bastian supports Max when tragedy strikes, although things take a bad turn, and they end up separated by life and circumstances.
They go their separate ways, and we keep waiting, convinced they will meet again. Bastian is still daring, impulsive, and is plagued by self-hatred and doubt. Max, who has always been more accepting of his own identity and has become stronger and more determined, has been living in Italy, has studied film, and finds a great opportunity to help Italian Jews. He takes part in the project of filming a movie under the protection of the Vatican and comes up with the idea of offering them contracts there. De Sica is determined to keep filming for as long as he can to keep all those people safe, and this historical fact provides a fascinating backdrop to the story of the two lovers.
The story, told in the third person, follows the point of view of the two male characters first, and later we also get to read about the adventures of Ilsa, Bastian’s sister, a fantastic character, from her point of view. She is strong, a fighter, and is determined to find her brother, no matter how far she has to go and what she has to do. Her experiences as a nurse during the war are gripping, and she keeps working despite terrible personal loss, hardship, and deprivation. Her character allows us to see things from a different perspective and also provides us more background into Bastian’s character, that is, perhaps, the most complex of the book, at least in my opinion.
Although the love story is central to the book, this is not a light and easy book to read. Apart from the tragedy and the terrible events that happen during the war, there is child abuse, mental illness, bullying, and the novel does not shy away from the unsavoury aspects of life. The characters are not all good and perfect either, and they sometimes do things that are questionable, while at others they can behave like true heroes.
The writing beautifully conveys the emotions of the characters, the setting (Rome as an open city provides a great backdrop), and the relationships, without going over the top with the descriptions, and ensuring the story keeps moving at a good pace. Being a big movie fan, I would have liked to read more about the filming of the movie, but the author refrains from getting sidetracked, and the guest appearances by the actors of the film and the interventions by De Sica are all the more enjoyable for being kept under control and not overwhelming the main story.
I wanted to share a couple of quotes from the book:
“Travel safely, signora. It is a dangerous world we are living in.” Her world had always been a dangerous one. A gun instead of a fist, a war instead of an irate father, her present didn’t feel so different from her past.” (This reflection belongs to Ilsa, Bastian’s sister).
Did something as inconsequential as film belong in this new world? It was De Sica who’d helped him see his misconception. “We need film, and music, and art, more than ever now,” De Sica had said. “These mediums help us remember that we are humans living in a world filled with monsters. What we are doing here is not frivolous. It is saving us, our humanity.” (Max questions his vocation, but De Sica comes to the rescue).
The ending feels appropriate and fits in well with a love story. It shows that both characters have grown and learned to accept who they are and what their relationship means. Other issues are resolved as well, and although some of the coincidences and the way the characters always seem to be in the right place at the right time require some suspension of disbelief, this does not go beyond the expectations for the genre.
In an end note, the author explains the conception of the story and clarifies that although Max, Bastian, and Ilsa are creations of her own imagination, the historical events and backdrop are accurate, and she has used her fictional characters as a conduit to tell the story. I believe this would be a great selection for book clubs, as there is much to discuss and many interesting aspects that will attract readers of different types of stories.
I recommend this book to readers of historical fiction, especially those interested in WWII, Italian cinema, and love stories with complex protagonists. I look forward to following the author’s career in the future.
May 2, 2018
I enjoyed the book from the very beginning. I even looked up the German youth camp in the US and saw that it is still in existence today. The friendship that blooms between the two protagonists was intriguing.
The book moves at a good pace. A real page-turner with twists and turns not expected.
Truly enjoyable read!
The book moves at a good pace. A real page-turner with twists and turns not expected.
Truly enjoyable read!
April 4, 2018
The Artist and the Soldier by Angelle Petta, is an original story that incorporates two main historical events that up until now, may have not been well known by many. One is the story of Italian director Vittorio De Sica, and the filming of his movie, La Puerta del Cielo, (The Gates of Heaven). De Sica aided in saving the lives of hundreds of Italian Jews living in Rome during its Nazi occupation in World War II, by hiring them on as extras for his film. What an amazing true-life premise for a great story!
The second event the US based American-Nazi camp Siegfried, on Long Island, in the 1930s, which sets the opening of the novel. The authentic feel of this camp shines through as Petta weaves a secret romantic relationship between two young men who fall in love there. This was a great place to bring them together for their first meeting, and to kick off the plot in this story. It made for a compelling read.
The narrative of Petta’s novel drew me into her historical fiction world, and held me through to the end. As a writer myself, I know that’s not easy to do. I’m a big fan of this genre and there were many of the elements I enjoy included here. The author has created an original, well written, and fascinating work that takes me back to one of the most important turning points in modern world history.
I’m always looking for social commentary in works of fiction and I saw elements in this novel that could have made a strong statement about love, and the current US climate of racial tension, but that was not the purpose of this work.
Because forbidden love in a time of war is the main point of this work, tension was the one thing I would have liked to feel a little more of, as a result of the relationship Max and Bastian were engaged in. I wanted to feel the absolute danger potential of them getting caught, and to know more about their motivations for engaging in such risky behavior at a time one could have, and probably would have, died for his decision to act upon his feelings of love for another man, if discovered.
Overall I gave this novel 4 stars because of its unique plot, original story, and well-written prose. It was a very entertaining read.
The second event the US based American-Nazi camp Siegfried, on Long Island, in the 1930s, which sets the opening of the novel. The authentic feel of this camp shines through as Petta weaves a secret romantic relationship between two young men who fall in love there. This was a great place to bring them together for their first meeting, and to kick off the plot in this story. It made for a compelling read.
The narrative of Petta’s novel drew me into her historical fiction world, and held me through to the end. As a writer myself, I know that’s not easy to do. I’m a big fan of this genre and there were many of the elements I enjoy included here. The author has created an original, well written, and fascinating work that takes me back to one of the most important turning points in modern world history.
I’m always looking for social commentary in works of fiction and I saw elements in this novel that could have made a strong statement about love, and the current US climate of racial tension, but that was not the purpose of this work.
Because forbidden love in a time of war is the main point of this work, tension was the one thing I would have liked to feel a little more of, as a result of the relationship Max and Bastian were engaged in. I wanted to feel the absolute danger potential of them getting caught, and to know more about their motivations for engaging in such risky behavior at a time one could have, and probably would have, died for his decision to act upon his feelings of love for another man, if discovered.
Overall I gave this novel 4 stars because of its unique plot, original story, and well-written prose. It was a very entertaining read.
October 5, 2018
I wanted to like this one. It should have been right up my alley.
The main problem I had with the story was it was hard to connect because everything just grazed the surface. Anytime I wanted to make that powerful emotional reader connection to the story, it would fall flat.
The story takes place in New York, Long island during the late 1930's. Two boys attend an American Hitler youth camp. I like reading historical fiction because I learn about (or relearn forgotten high school/college history) and I never really thought about American Nazi youth camps. Camps where youngins were sent to learn to be good little American Nazi Supermen. Anyway, two boys Bastian and Max who come from troubled or emotionally lacking backgrounds become close friends, and kindle a forbidden romance. I don't want to get to spoilery (is that a word, Swype let me spell it, so) but people die, feelings get hurt, and we find the the guys separated by the war.
I felt that the story was way too broad. Writing about historical fiction gives you a lot of material and especially WWII HF so much more in terms of describing the setting and people/place that fell flat. Throwing ib a name that might sound, German or Italian doesn't put me in that setting, if I hadn't read a million WWII HF stories I don't think it will would've been enough to grab someone's attention without going in on that setting and really putting a reader there. There was a scenes where the character picks up his phone and calls New York City from Italy in 1943. Im no history or phone expert but how would that be possible, I tried to find how long distance calling worked in 1943 or postwar but couldn't not find any international calling. Let's say for the authors artistic license that it was possible. How would it be expected in the middle of a war, which basically all of Europe was a warzone, including Italy in 1943. I never read any WWII HF where someone picked up a phone like it was such a normal thing anyway. I know it sounds crazy for me to go on and on about a phone, but the material is already there when your writing historical fiction, you shouldn't have to make up some things up, most things actually.
The way the sorry was written also bothered me, to many points of view, it made the story suffer to know exactly what event character was thinking all the time, made it hard to follow. There wasn't enough character development which I feel was too bad, because there was some serious potential work this book.
The main problem I had with the story was it was hard to connect because everything just grazed the surface. Anytime I wanted to make that powerful emotional reader connection to the story, it would fall flat.
The story takes place in New York, Long island during the late 1930's. Two boys attend an American Hitler youth camp. I like reading historical fiction because I learn about (or relearn forgotten high school/college history) and I never really thought about American Nazi youth camps. Camps where youngins were sent to learn to be good little American Nazi Supermen. Anyway, two boys Bastian and Max who come from troubled or emotionally lacking backgrounds become close friends, and kindle a forbidden romance. I don't want to get to spoilery (is that a word, Swype let me spell it, so) but people die, feelings get hurt, and we find the the guys separated by the war.
I felt that the story was way too broad. Writing about historical fiction gives you a lot of material and especially WWII HF so much more in terms of describing the setting and people/place that fell flat. Throwing ib a name that might sound, German or Italian doesn't put me in that setting, if I hadn't read a million WWII HF stories I don't think it will would've been enough to grab someone's attention without going in on that setting and really putting a reader there. There was a scenes where the character picks up his phone and calls New York City from Italy in 1943. Im no history or phone expert but how would that be possible, I tried to find how long distance calling worked in 1943 or postwar but couldn't not find any international calling. Let's say for the authors artistic license that it was possible. How would it be expected in the middle of a war, which basically all of Europe was a warzone, including Italy in 1943. I never read any WWII HF where someone picked up a phone like it was such a normal thing anyway. I know it sounds crazy for me to go on and on about a phone, but the material is already there when your writing historical fiction, you shouldn't have to make up some things up, most things actually.
The way the sorry was written also bothered me, to many points of view, it made the story suffer to know exactly what event character was thinking all the time, made it hard to follow. There wasn't enough character development which I feel was too bad, because there was some serious potential work this book.
November 3, 2018
This is a wonderful piece of historical fiction, bringing out some fascinating (true) details about events surrounding World War II that I was unaware of previously. For one, I had no idea there had been close to 70 chapters of the Bund camps spread throughout the United States promoting the Nazi party and Germany in the 1930's. The resistance effort Rome was also fascinating reading.
There is another wonderful timeless story told here as well The story of two young boys, unlikely allies- turned possible lovers- becoming men. Max and Bastian find something in each other that lacked in their early lives: trust and purpose. It's what drives them and gives them hope.
With the nostalgia, romance and setting, I found myself taken away to another time and transported in to the heart of this beautiful story.
Author Angelle Petta skillfully brings together all the elements in a way that feel so true and realistic without ever teetering on the question of believability. There are many harsh realities here, delicately handled without grandiose promises of what is to come.
While the budding friendship/romance between Max and Bastian is the heart of the story; it is Ilsa (Bastian's sister) that shines through with determination and strength, grounding the story in the harsh truths of history.
I was enjoying this book so much, I found myself limiting the amount I read (at a time) in order to make it last as long as possible. It felt like dwelling on a precious memory, or reliving the dark but treasured passage of a dream.
The Soldier and the Artist is about heroism, in many different forms. Petta reminds us, in truth, heroes don't always bask in glory or reap bountiful rewards-- they only save the moment and give a chance for another tomorrow. Maybe someday, a better future.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
There is another wonderful timeless story told here as well The story of two young boys, unlikely allies- turned possible lovers- becoming men. Max and Bastian find something in each other that lacked in their early lives: trust and purpose. It's what drives them and gives them hope.
With the nostalgia, romance and setting, I found myself taken away to another time and transported in to the heart of this beautiful story.
Author Angelle Petta skillfully brings together all the elements in a way that feel so true and realistic without ever teetering on the question of believability. There are many harsh realities here, delicately handled without grandiose promises of what is to come.
While the budding friendship/romance between Max and Bastian is the heart of the story; it is Ilsa (Bastian's sister) that shines through with determination and strength, grounding the story in the harsh truths of history.
I was enjoying this book so much, I found myself limiting the amount I read (at a time) in order to make it last as long as possible. It felt like dwelling on a precious memory, or reliving the dark but treasured passage of a dream.
The Soldier and the Artist is about heroism, in many different forms. Petta reminds us, in truth, heroes don't always bask in glory or reap bountiful rewards-- they only save the moment and give a chance for another tomorrow. Maybe someday, a better future.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 29, 2018
I received this book as an advanced copy through NetGalley. This was a fantastic read for students studying World War 2. The reference to dates, people and historical events were mostly accurate and were decisively linked to the stories of the protagonist, strengthening students ability to understand the causes and consequences of each event. This allows the book to fit easily into a history or even sociology curriculum. The LGBTQ theme also promotes inclusivity and representation, especially in an area (historical fiction) where such themes are often absent or relegated to the background. The novel is weak in the area of character development and offers more of a "tell me" rather than "show me" model in explaining the motivations of characters and groups. While this precludes the novel from serving as an effective device for character study; it does make it more accessible to students who struggle to imply meaning from text. In other words, it will help engage struggling readers and students with special needs by allowing them to engage in the historical context of the story even if they are students that typically struggle with reading between the lines. I work with students that have Autism, and they struggle specifically with inferring character motivation based on action and dialogue - this helps them access the history without getting caught up in the struggle to recognize social context.
While my review above was mostly focused on the value of the book as a teaching tool, I also want to add that I enjoyed the book as an adult reader as well. The story was wonderful, mostly plot driven (which is OK by me), and brought to light some events that happened in U.S and Italy before and during World War 2 that I previously unaware of. And the gay love story was a welcome addition to a genre that seriously lacks LGBTQ representation.
While my review above was mostly focused on the value of the book as a teaching tool, I also want to add that I enjoyed the book as an adult reader as well. The story was wonderful, mostly plot driven (which is OK by me), and brought to light some events that happened in U.S and Italy before and during World War 2 that I previously unaware of. And the gay love story was a welcome addition to a genre that seriously lacks LGBTQ representation.
October 11, 2018
4 Stars
In 1939, Bastian and Max meet at Camp Siegfried, in New York, a camp where German-American teens are sent to learn how to become soldiers. The 17 year-olds become unlikely friends and by the end of the seven weeks, they have developed deeper feelings for one another, but tragedy strikes, tearing them apart and sending them in different directions: Max travels to Italy to live with his family and attend school, while Bastian joins the military and goes off to war. Circumstances bring them back together 5 years later, in Italy, but can these two young men build a life together and will they even survive the war to have a future?
I loved the premise of the story and it was well-executed. It was interesting and entertaining and the author did a wonderful job at working in the historical aspects of the story throughout. The story was well-written, but it was paced somewhat slow and seemed to drag in certain areas. The action portions of the story were exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat.
As for the romance, it didn’t just take a backseat to the story, it was about 10-car lengths behind it. Frankly, for me, the romance portion failed and it’s sad, because I was really looking forward to seeing how these two young men could build a life together in this time period, but there was hardly anything there in the romance department.
If you’re a history buff and love WWII history, you’ll most likely love this story, but if you're looking for a romance, look elsewhere, because sadly, you won’t really find it here. Still, the story was enjoyable and recommendable.
*copy provided by author or publisher in exchange for an honest review*
In 1939, Bastian and Max meet at Camp Siegfried, in New York, a camp where German-American teens are sent to learn how to become soldiers. The 17 year-olds become unlikely friends and by the end of the seven weeks, they have developed deeper feelings for one another, but tragedy strikes, tearing them apart and sending them in different directions: Max travels to Italy to live with his family and attend school, while Bastian joins the military and goes off to war. Circumstances bring them back together 5 years later, in Italy, but can these two young men build a life together and will they even survive the war to have a future?
I loved the premise of the story and it was well-executed. It was interesting and entertaining and the author did a wonderful job at working in the historical aspects of the story throughout. The story was well-written, but it was paced somewhat slow and seemed to drag in certain areas. The action portions of the story were exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat.
As for the romance, it didn’t just take a backseat to the story, it was about 10-car lengths behind it. Frankly, for me, the romance portion failed and it’s sad, because I was really looking forward to seeing how these two young men could build a life together in this time period, but there was hardly anything there in the romance department.
If you’re a history buff and love WWII history, you’ll most likely love this story, but if you're looking for a romance, look elsewhere, because sadly, you won’t really find it here. Still, the story was enjoyable and recommendable.
*copy provided by author or publisher in exchange for an honest review*
October 14, 2018
I found myself surprised by this book. It starts with Max and Bastian meeting at a Nazi youth summer camp. These two are physical and social opposites. Max is upper-middle class, skinny, and takes after his mother’s Italian heritage where Bastian is poor, athletic, blond haired and blue eyed. However, it becomes obvious early that their lives and motivations are quite similar in terms of their upbringing and family dynamics. They somehow become fast friends, protective of the other and fall in love. But, then life, as usual, gets in the way and they live separate lives for several years.
In the midst of the WWII, they are surprisingly reunited and the love that was once there, blossoms in the most difficult of circumstances. All of the characters are quite well-written and the mood and tone of the novel are quite evocative. The author does a fantastic job of describing the setting of WWII Italy, to the point where I found myself lost there.
The only reason I don’t give this one 5 stars is the constant POV switching. It’s so frequent, paragraph to paragraph, that I found myself having to go back and re-read passages to make sure it was from the right character’s POV. And POV is not simply from the 2 MCs, Max and Bastian, but supporting characters like Max’s father, Max’s mother, Bastian’s sister Ilsa, etc. I found it hard sometimes to keep up, unfortunately.
Having said that, this is a fantastic and evocative read that I highly recommend.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
In the midst of the WWII, they are surprisingly reunited and the love that was once there, blossoms in the most difficult of circumstances. All of the characters are quite well-written and the mood and tone of the novel are quite evocative. The author does a fantastic job of describing the setting of WWII Italy, to the point where I found myself lost there.
The only reason I don’t give this one 5 stars is the constant POV switching. It’s so frequent, paragraph to paragraph, that I found myself having to go back and re-read passages to make sure it was from the right character’s POV. And POV is not simply from the 2 MCs, Max and Bastian, but supporting characters like Max’s father, Max’s mother, Bastian’s sister Ilsa, etc. I found it hard sometimes to keep up, unfortunately.
Having said that, this is a fantastic and evocative read that I highly recommend.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
October 1, 2018
I received this via netgalley. Although I do read historical novels on occasion this is a not something I have encountered before knowing so little of the theatre of war from an American point of view. It was interesting to learn that such a place as Camp Siegfried could exist amidst the horror of what was happening in Europe.
Ostensibly the novel is an enfolding love story which develops between two young men who are unsure of what has happened to them at a time of immense upheaval and prejudice. Both of German descent they are thrown together for a short time and are abruptly torn apart only to meet again in Rome some years later during the the occupation of the German army and the advance of the Americans. Though they have both tried neither of the two youths have managed to forget each other.
Bastion is a part of the advancing American army and Max has found himself involved in the protection of Italian Jews acting as extras hidden during making of a film under the protection of the Vatican. I found the writing to be original and well researched. A story encompassing the horror or war yet manages to convey complex emotions of hate, lies, prejudice and betrayal but also love and loyalty in equal measure.
Ostensibly the novel is an enfolding love story which develops between two young men who are unsure of what has happened to them at a time of immense upheaval and prejudice. Both of German descent they are thrown together for a short time and are abruptly torn apart only to meet again in Rome some years later during the the occupation of the German army and the advance of the Americans. Though they have both tried neither of the two youths have managed to forget each other.
Bastion is a part of the advancing American army and Max has found himself involved in the protection of Italian Jews acting as extras hidden during making of a film under the protection of the Vatican. I found the writing to be original and well researched. A story encompassing the horror or war yet manages to convey complex emotions of hate, lies, prejudice and betrayal but also love and loyalty in equal measure.
May 29, 2018
This beautifully crafted novel introduces the two primary characters, Bastien and Max, at a summer camp where these seventeen-year-old sons of German-American fathers are being prepared for war. Each of these two characters is fully and sympathetically developed throughout the novel as he matures and evaluates his life and choices. Each is confronted with challenges that illuminate character and forward the plot, engaging the reader from beginning to end.
Pacing is artfully maintained with fascinating historical details involving the progress of the war and military and political machinations interspersed with scenes of shocking intolerance and brutality. Part of the backdrop is the brilliant film-maker’s ploy that holds lives safe only so long as the fiction is maintained. Max’s and Bastien’s personal dilemmas are acted out against that ploy that could fracture at any time.
Petta’s writing style is so clear that, though the story is told in multiple points of view, it is never confusing. The story rapidly unfolds and leads the reader through to the final lovely scene where there is hope for the future, both theirs and ours. This is a thoroughly enjoyable novel.
September 10, 2018
Max Amsel and Bastian Fisher meet in the Catskills at an American-German Nazi camp in 1938. Max admires Bastian who is bigger, and stronger and the two boys become friends. There are also some stronger feelings involved, but the two young men are torn apart by family circumstances. In 1943, they meet again in Rome.
This is an interesting story of two young men from different backgrounds growing up around the events of World War II. I had no idea there were summer camps in America to instill Nazis principles back then. I had read before about the filming in Rome and how Italian Jews were saved, but the author did a nice job of tieing the two events together using Max and Bastian.
The writing flowed well, and I think this book would especially be apropos for young adult readers who could identify with Max, Bastian, and Ilsa, Bastian's sister. It's a nice read about this period of history.
This is an interesting story of two young men from different backgrounds growing up around the events of World War II. I had no idea there were summer camps in America to instill Nazis principles back then. I had read before about the filming in Rome and how Italian Jews were saved, but the author did a nice job of tieing the two events together using Max and Bastian.
The writing flowed well, and I think this book would especially be apropos for young adult readers who could identify with Max, Bastian, and Ilsa, Bastian's sister. It's a nice read about this period of history.
September 20, 2018
Max Amsel and Bastian Fisher meet in the Catskills at an American-German Nazi camp in 1938. Max admires Bastian who is bigger, and stronger and the two boys become friends. There are also some stronger feelings involved, but the two young men are torn apart by family circumstances. In 1943, they meet again in Rome.
This is an interesting story of two young men from different backgrounds growing up around the events of World War II. I had no idea there were summer camps in America to instill Nazis principles back then. I had read before about the filming in Rome and how Italian Jews were saved, but the author did a nice job of tieing the two events together using Max and Bastian.
The writing flowed well, and I think this book would especially be apropos for young adult readers who could identify with Max, Bastian, and Ilsa, Bastian's sister. It's a nice read about this period of history.
This is an interesting story of two young men from different backgrounds growing up around the events of World War II. I had no idea there were summer camps in America to instill Nazis principles back then. I had read before about the filming in Rome and how Italian Jews were saved, but the author did a nice job of tieing the two events together using Max and Bastian.
The writing flowed well, and I think this book would especially be apropos for young adult readers who could identify with Max, Bastian, and Ilsa, Bastian's sister. It's a nice read about this period of history.
November 20, 2018
I wanted to like this book. The summary seemed amazing and fairly unique, and I was looking forward to reading it. My main issue in the beginning chapters was the abrupt POV switches. From one line to the next you are never quite sure who's POV you are reading. It gets better in the latter half when the characters are apart and full chapters are devoted to a single POV, but in the beginning it's rather confusing. The ending was also a bit lackluster for me. I would have liked at least some concrete indication of what was going to happen next.
There was a lot of good things about this book as well, though. For one, there was obviously a lot of research put into it. The characters were also realistic and fairly relatable. I would have liked to get a bit more into what they felt and why they did what they did, though. It felt like you barely got enough insight to make them human, but not quite enough to really feel real.
There was a lot of good things about this book as well, though. For one, there was obviously a lot of research put into it. The characters were also realistic and fairly relatable. I would have liked to get a bit more into what they felt and why they did what they did, though. It felt like you barely got enough insight to make them human, but not quite enough to really feel real.
April 14, 2019
I was pleasantly surprised by this poignant tale of two boys forced by their fathers to go to a Nazi run summer camp. They meet and become inseparable during camp. Shortly after their lives diverge and WWII begins. The story follows them through the war. Being a history buff, I was happy to see that the author did extensive research about the times. She includes several real events and people in the novel, even though it is a work of fiction. It really brings the story and history to life.
In history class, they focus mostly on what happened in the concentration camps, and tell you very little about what happened to the people who were not taken. This story shows you how the soldiers and civilians lived in war-torn Europe. You see the suffering of families split apart. The fear. The courage. You see how complete strangers band together and help each other in a Nazi occupied city.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
In history class, they focus mostly on what happened in the concentration camps, and tell you very little about what happened to the people who were not taken. This story shows you how the soldiers and civilians lived in war-torn Europe. You see the suffering of families split apart. The fear. The courage. You see how complete strangers band together and help each other in a Nazi occupied city.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
October 4, 2018
Angelle Petta has done an amazing job of developing multi dimensional characters that the reader will feel invested in from the start. I love being able to picture everything about the characters I am reading about and what they are doing.
While you have the main characters, Bastian & Max, Angelle also explores deeper into other characters lives as well giving another layer to the story. We have wonderful secondary characters.
I loved how smooth and quick of a read it was. It deals with War and a bit deeper/darker topics, but that didn’t takeaway from the pace at which I devoured the novel.
While you have the main characters, Bastian & Max, Angelle also explores deeper into other characters lives as well giving another layer to the story. We have wonderful secondary characters.
I loved how smooth and quick of a read it was. It deals with War and a bit deeper/darker topics, but that didn’t takeaway from the pace at which I devoured the novel.
April 9, 2018
Petta’s novel reopens historical landscapes—from the woods of Camp Siegfried designed to teach a German boy “his place in the order of the world” to the set of La Puerta del Cielo where hundreds of lives were saved through a fiction. In between, readers follow the stories of Max and Bastian, a pair who find love in each other.
As one character says, “Love is never insignificant. Love is the reason we’re here.” To keep company with Max, Bastian, and the characters in The Artist and The Soldier is to celebrate life and art and the extraordinary capacity of each to heal.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 27, 2018
Absolutely LOVED this book! I loved the historical backdrop accompanying the beautiful romance between these two characters. I was desperate to keep reading and find out what happened between these two characters. The only thing I had issue with was the continuing shifts in POV, but I think that’s more of just my issue because I have a hard time telling the shifts without it being clearly labeled haha
But if you’re looking for a beautiful LGBTQ romance set in a tense historical setting this is a book for you!
But if you’re looking for a beautiful LGBTQ romance set in a tense historical setting this is a book for you!
October 2, 2018
I received an early copy of this novel from Net Galley. WWII novels are always a favorite of mine, especially when I can learn about some aspects of the war that I never knew of. I was not aware of the Nazi camps in the U.S. or of the Italian director De Sica using his movie set as a way to save and protect Jews in Rome. The story of love and friendship that grew over time between Max and Bastian was such a beautiful way to weave these two stories together. It was very interesting to see the war from the perspective of two young German Americans and where their paths led them. This was truly a beautiful coming of age story in a very difficult time.
November 6, 2018
Superb writing from Angelle Petta and an emotional and fast flowing story. There were a lot of moving a parts to this one and I really liked the originality that Petta brought.
This novel was very vivid in the descriptions, the writing really jumped off the pages and into my head.
I felt like I got a solid understanding of the characters in the story. They are in a different time in a unique situation and it really makes you think about how different it would have been for them back then.
This novel was very vivid in the descriptions, the writing really jumped off the pages and into my head.
I felt like I got a solid understanding of the characters in the story. They are in a different time in a unique situation and it really makes you think about how different it would have been for them back then.
January 27, 2019
I enjoyed this World War II Era novel. I love reading historical fiction that teaches me something - I wasn't familiar with Nazi Youth camps in America or that filmmaker DeSica made a movie in Italy and gave safe-harbor to people in danger from the Nazis. The author did a nice job of telling the main characters' love story amidst the backdrop of war-torn Italy. Overall a good read and a different take on the WWII genre of books.
October 2, 2018
This book really made me think and feel more than any other I have read recently. I loved the historical aspects and how authentic the setting and characters felt. I loved the way that the author was able to give these characters major obstacles, keep them endeering, and not let the reader lose sight of what this is all about. A very touching read.
June 27, 2019
I enjoyed this story, it was a keen insight into the life for young boys in the time of WW2. I liked the story arc of the boys' relationship, how they each grew and flourished on their own in a time where they didn't know if they would wake up the next morning. Full of emotional upheaval and the gritty reality of wartime in Italy, this story is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.
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